You never really realize how bad something is until it’s too late. A nice sun-kissed tan looks beautiful in photos, but unprotected, extended time in the sun is harmful to your health.
Growing up in the South, puts you at higher risk for skin damage as you are constantly exposed to the elements. Having said that, there are ways to reduce your risk factor and protect yourself.
A week ago, I went for a facial since I was breaking out. This was probably due to stress and poor diet. During my facial, the esthetician told me I should start taking better care of my skin, that I was showing early signs of hypodermatitis. I didn’t know what that was and certainly didn’t like the sound of it.
“Hypodermatitis is a skin disease characterized by well-circumscribed, chronic, painful and tender, single or multiple, board-like, indurated, sharply bordered lesions, occurring on the legs of patients with venous insufficiency.”
She told me I would probably start to see wrinkles and brown spots on my face by the time I was 35 years old. She made me feel uncomfortable and very self-conscious. I didn’t like what I was hearing.
The esthetician was very helpful in answering my questions about preventing further sun damage to my skin. Taking good care of my skin is very important to me, as skin cancer runs in my family.
Here are some tips from her that I’ll share with you:
- Try to drink up to 64 oz. (8 cups) of water daily.
- Minimize your alcohol intake.
- Abstain from recreational drugs.
- Incorporate a facial cleansing and moisturizing routine daily.
- Get a facial once a month. Try not to wear too much makeup. If you do, try using hypoallergenic products.
- When you are outside, wear sunblock.
Since my facial, I’m happy to report that I am making a concerted effort to take better care of my skin, especially when I tan! Consider implementing these tips to maintain your youthful skin, too.
Feature Image by Artem Bali on Unsplash
